Somali referee Artan barred from entering US ahead of World Cup

Somali referee Omar Artan has been barred from entering the United States, effectively preventing him from officiating at the FIFA World Cup 2026. Artan, who was set to make history as the first Somali to referee at the tournament, was denied entry at Miami International Airport due to unspecified "vetting concerns" by U.S. Customs and Border Protection. He was subsequently sent back to Istanbul.

This decision comes despite reports that Artan, named Africa's top referee in 2025, possessed a valid visa and diplomatic passport. While Somalia is on a U.S. travel restriction list, exemptions can be made for World Cup personnel. FIFA has confirmed his exclusion, stating that host nations ultimately control entry decisions and that the organization is not involved in countries' immigration processes.

The denial has sparked criticism from Somali sports officials, who argue it undermines the principles of fairness in football. Artan expressed positivity despite the setback, focusing on future challenges in his career.